Mamamia: Mia Freedman’s son Luca Lavigne appointed new CEO as Natalie Harvey steps down from role

Mamamia has named Luca Lavigne as its new chief executive, with the founder’s son stepping into the top job following the departure of outgoing CEO Natalie Harvey.

The 28-year-old, whose parents Mia Freedman and Jason Lavigne co-founded the women’s media company in 2007, takes over after serving as chief operating officer and chief product officer over the past two years.

After starting at the company at just 18 as an intern, Lavigne welcomed the promotion.

“I’ve spent about a decade now working across every part of this business. Came in when I was 18 as an intern. I found my first grey hair the other day, which I think says a lot about where I’m at in my life. I’ve also just had newborn twins. I’ve got three kids at home. So it seems to be a pattern in my life that I seem to do things a little early,” he told Mumbrella.

“Over the last few years in particular, I’ve spent that time leading, mostly from behind the scenes … a lot of the most transformational projects in our business.”

Lavigne said he is prepared to face scrutiny over both his appointment and pay.

“Let’s be honest about how I got in the door here 10 years ago. The co-founders and I go back a long time. We’ve known each other a while … I’m not gonna insult anyone’s intelligence by pretending otherwise,” he said.

“What I do know is that Mamamia is not a place that you can coast. Every single team member across every department, every single day, is operating at the absolute top of their game. That is our culture; it’s the only culture I’ve ever known since I was 17 or 18.

“I think that people will think what they like about me, and they’ll write what they like about me, but to be honest, it’s none of my business, and I’ve learnt to put that out of my mind. And the thing that I do care about, and the thing that does matter most to me, is ensuring I have the respect of all of my colleagues who I sit shoulder to shoulder with every day.”

Harvey, who previously spent eight years in advertising and sales at Seven West Media and has more than 20 years’ experience in the media industry, will depart Mamamia in September to take on a chief revenue role at Southern Cross Austereo (SCA).

In a statement, she said: “I’m thrilled to be joining SCA at such an exciting time. What really excites me about the role is the combination of trusted brands, talented people and a clear ambition for the future.

“The business has an incredible opportunity to unlock the full potential of its combined strengths, creating even greater value for audiences and brand partners.”